Early Life and Education
Born on February 6, 1978, in Washington, D.C., Malaya Rivera Drew was raised in a family of activist lawyers. She attended Woodrow Wilson High School before pursuing English Literature and Spanish at Middlebury College. Her passion for acting led her to the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, where she honed her craft before launching her professional career.
Breakthrough Roles
Drew’s early television appearances included guest roles on Law & Order: SVU and CSI: Miami. She gained prominence with recurring roles as Katey Alvaro on ER and Adele Channing on The L Word. Her portrayal of complex characters showcased her versatility and depth as an actress.
Film and Theater Contributions
Beyond television, Drew has made significant contributions to film and theater. She appeared as Gabriella Forrester in the critically acclaimed film Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri. Her stage work includes performances in Neil LaBute’s The Distance From Here and The Sins of Sor Juana at the Goodman Theatre.
Recent Projects
In recent years, Drew has continued to take on diverse roles. She portrayed Lucia Morales in Good Trouble and Detective Barrios in American Horror Story. Her ability to adapt to various genres and characters keeps her in demand within the industry.
Personal Life
Drew is married to screenwriter David Kline, and the couple resides in Los Angeles. She is known for her fluency in Spanish and has lived in cities like Madrid, London, and New York, reflecting a rich cultural background.
Physical Attributes
Standing at 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing approximately 121 pounds, Drew possesses a commanding presence. Her mixed heritage includes English, Native American, Polish, Spanish, and Filipino descent, contributing to her unique and captivating appearance.
Recognition and Awards
Drew’s talent has not gone unnoticed. She was ranked #19 on Maxim‘s “100 Hottest Girls of Entourage” in 2008 and #2 on ER‘s “Hottest Doctors of All Time” in 2009. Her ensemble work in Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri earned her a SAG Award for Best Ensemble.
Legacy and Impact
Malaya Rivera Drew’s career is marked by a commitment to diverse and meaningful roles. Her work continues to inspire audiences and aspiring actors alike, solidifying her place as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.